Mike Nicastro: This pick is much more than just a feel good story. It’s not a hand out. Heidenreich is a better prospect than the Steelers fourth round pick, Wetjen, and I candidly thought he’d been long gone by now.  He holds the most receiving yards and receiving TDS in Navy history – and can play both wideout and running back. Of course he’ll play a factor on special teams as well. If I were a betting man, I would bet on this guy finding a way to make the team – because that’s just what he’s always done. Grade: A++

Ryland Bickley: Look, the Christian McCaffrey comparisons are always going to be rich, but there’s no denying the upside of Eli Heidenreich. He’s uber athletic and managed over 1,000 yards from scrimmage in 2025 — including 971 receiving yards in Navy’s offense! Seventh-round picks, especially in this year’s thin draft, are essentially priority undrafted free agents, and Heidenreich is the type of guy you want to bring into camp as a dart throw. He’s a weapon, and you can figure out his place in an NFL offense now that he’s on the roster. – Grade: A

Joey Bray: What an exclamation point for the Steelers to end their selections in their city. Ryland and Mike said it best but I have to say it again, the upside is truly unlimited with this kid. He played running back and slot receiver in college and holds the record for the most receicing touchdowns in a single season at the Naval Academy with. Heindenreich said at the combine that he believes people discount his initial burst once he gets the ball, and I couldn’t agree more. This guy is pure lightning in a bottle with the ball in his hands. Even if he ends up being nothing more than a gadget guy, it’s impressive to get someone with his upside this late in the draft. Grade: A

Ryan Parish: Love this pick as a late round flier. Pittsburgh kid with similar athletic measurables and versatility.  I prefer Heidenreich as a running back as I think he doesn’t necessarily separate consistently as a slot receiver,  but he has good hands an tracking skills. His kick return versatility makes the Wetjen pick feel even more superfluous. Excited to get him to Latrobe and see what Mike McCarthy can cook up for him. Grade: A

Jarrett Bailey: What a moment, but it’s not just about the moment – Heidenreich can play. Wherever the Steelers decide to put him, he is incredibly versatile, playing both running back and wide receiver in college. He was perhaps the most athletic player remaining on the board, and I’ll say right now that he’ll make the 53-man roster. Grade: A

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